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IN-OFFICE BALLOON SINUPLASTY

What is a Balloon Sinuplasty?

This breakthrough technique in endoscopic sinus surgery allows board certified ear, nose and throat (ENT) physicians to perform treatment in-office under local anesthesia. It comes from the same technology used in angioplasty. Instead of clearing blocked blood vessels around the heart, this technology was specifically adapted for Rhinology (ENT sub-specialty dealing with nasal and sinus disease) and sinus surgery. No incisions, faster recovery and no more sinus pain. If this sounds like a treatment you need, it might be time to sit down with Dr. Jones at our Ear, Sinus and Allergy Center. We go above and beyond to meet all patient standards and provide one-on-one care to help you get relief.

What is Sinusitis?

This common disease affects 37 million people in the United States each year, making it more prevalent than asthma and heart disease. With chronic sinusitis, the mucous membranes of your nose, sinuses and throat swell due to inflammation in conjunction with either a cold or allergies. This inflammation blocks the natural pathways and prevents drainage. The mucus and pressure builds up. Depending on the duration, there are three types of sinusitis: acute (less than four weeks), subacute (four to 12 weeks) and chronic (more than 12 weeks).

1)A guide wire and balloon catheter are inserted into the inflamed sinus

2)The balloon is gently inflated to slowly expand the sinus openings

3)Saline is sprayed into the infected cavity to flush out pus and mucus

4)The system is removed, leaving the sinuses open

Common Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis

Fatigue

Headaches

Facial pain

Sore throat

Bad breath

Teeth pain

Sinus pressure or congestion

Lost sense of smell or taste

Swelling around the eyes, cheeks and nose

Difficulty breathing through the nose

Thick yellow or green mucus drainage

Why is Chronic Sinusitis Such a Problem?

What Does this Procedure Entail?

For this procedure, the doctor does not need to cut any nasal bone or tissue. Instead of standard instruments, the doctor uses a balloon dilating catheter to open sinus passages, allowing them to drain better. First, Dr. Jones uses a local anesthesia to numb treatment areas. This also means the patient is fully awake, but does not feel any pain. Then, Dr. Jones inserts a guide wire and balloon catheter up through the nostril and into the inflamed sinus. Next, he inflates the balloon gently to enlarge the opening and flushes out the infected sinus cavity with saline spray, clearing away pus and mucus. Lastly, he deflates the balloon and removes the system, restoring the natural drainage. This results in less trauma to surrounding tissue and faster recovery times. In most cases, patients do not need to return to Dr. Jones for repeat procedures, but this depends on the extent of your sinus disease and several other relevant factors.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Healing times vary from patient to patient, but typically, most patients return to normal activity after just two days.

Are There Any Risks?

The balloon is a soft plastic that does not contain any latex, making this procedure less invasive and extremely safe compared to other sinus surgeries. However, despite the low complication rate, there are some associated risks. These include possible mucosal and tissue trauma, infection or possible optic injury.

Am I a Candidate for this Procedure?

Usually this procedure is safe for most patients, and Dr. Jones often recommends it for those who suffer from four or more sinus infection within a one-year period. He can even use it for children with chronic sinus infections who do not respond well to conventional medical treatments. If you suffer from chronic sinusitis and have an interest in a balloon sinuplasty, you must consult with Dr. Jones. He will know for sure if your condition and medical history makes you a viable candidate for treatment.

Choosing Dr. Jones for Balloon Sinuplasty

At least 20 percent of patients with chronic sinusitis do not get successful treatment from medical therapy. If medical management has not been enough to relive your case of sinusitis, then Dr. Jones is ready to help. He can diagnose your condition and work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.

"I had severe pain on my left nasal passage and was hard to blow my nose, had a bad smell, nasal drip and affected my singing and was always irritated. Once I had the balloon sinusplasty procedure, I felt instant relief and saw results as my singing is clearer and I feel fabulous."- Felicia M.Balloon Sinuplasty Patient